Domestic violence is a pattern of violent and abusive behavior exercised by one adult over another, many times in an intimate relationship. Abuse can take many forms, such as physical, psychological, economic, sexual and emotional. Abuse can even be present in a combination of several of these. This can include forms of violent and controlling behaviour such as: physical assault, sexual abuse, rape, threats and intimidation, harassment, humiliating and controlling behaviour, withholding of finances, economic manipulation, deprivation, isolation, belittling and constant unreasonable criticism. Domestic violence affects people from all socioeconomic backgrounds and can occur in couples who are married, living together, or dating.
